Assoc. Dr. Emre Cesur answers the question, “Can I not have orthodontics if I have gum disease?” and explains the details of the correct treatment sequence.
Is Orthodontics Possible in Active Gum Disease?
If there is active gum disease (bleeding, inflammation, bone loss continuing), orthodontic treatment is not started immediately. Periodontal treatment is done first, that is, gum health is brought under control. Because moving teeth in tissue that has lost its health can lead to further bone loss.
Orthodontics After Gum Treatment
However, if gum treatment is completed and the disease is under control, orthodontics can even be very beneficial for these patients. Proper tooth alignment facilitates cleaning, supports gum health in the long term, and can even provide tissue gain in appropriate cases.
Of course, it is healthiest to make this decision after an examination by a specialist periodontist and orthodontist. In short: Gum disease is not always an obstacle to orthodontics.
[Image caption: Proper tooth alignment facilitates cleaning, supports gum health in the long term, and can even provide tissue gain in appropriate cases.]